Sister M. Samuel Conlan

Sister Samuel, a member of the Sisters of St. Dominic, is a dedicated and exemplary educator. She received her Ph.D. in English Literature from Stanford University and joined the faculty of Dominican college in 1957, serving as President of the College from 1968-80. She continues to teach English. Under her leadership, the college was transformed from an all women's college into a co-educational institution. She spearheaded the placement on campus of a model Development Center for children with special needs and supported the development of a Special Education Teacher Training Program which earned statewide recognition for excellence. Seeing the need for the college to be an integral part of the community, she expanded the Board of Trustees to include members of the business and professional community.

Through her work in the field of education for over 40 years, Sister Samuel has influenced the lives of scores of students. She is teaching by example that you can address the world with confidence, serve with courage, principle, elegance, compassion and grace. In 1980, she received the Dominican College Distinguished Service Award and in 1981, School Master of the Year. Golden Gate University awarded her an honorary degree in 1980.